Leedseptoctpdffmaglr17 by Families Leeds

Leeds

IN THIS ISSUE

Back to School Clubs & Classes

The Tiger Who Came to Tea

ILLUSTRATIONS COPYRIGHT Â© KERR-KNEALE PRODUCTIONS LTD 1968

Book Bundles to be Won

Ashville

OPEN DAY Sat 7th Oct 1:30 - 4:30pm

a musical play adapted and directed by DAVID WOOD based on the book by JUDITH KERR

HHHH WIN The Times

TICKETS! COMPETITION INSIDE

TUE 17 - WED 18 OCT 2017 IL KL EY

01274 432000 bradford-theatres.co.uk BKG FEES APPLY

Issue 54 September/October 2017

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STOCKELD

PARK

Where magic is made & adventures

begin

Halloween Adventure

LEED S

Open Daily 20 - 31 October Spooky Family Fun for all ages

23rd – 27th October Discover how the lens, cornea, iris, optic nerve and retina work together to create the images we see. Next to St James’s Hospital. On-site parking and on the major bus routes from Leeds city centre.

Located between Harrogate & Leeds LS22 4AN

www.stockeldpark.co.uk

thackraymedicalmuseum.co.uk

27-31 Oct. New & Terrifying!

www.frightnight.co

12A

OPEN MORNING Saturday 14 October 9am – 12 noon

Come and join us for our annual showcase open event. Enjoy a tour, take part in the many activities on offer, see our sports teams in action and talk to staff and students.

0113 229 1552 | admissions@gsal.org.uk 2 Families Leeds

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WELCOME BACK

CONTENTS… Cover photo credit: Thank you to Clare Dickinson of Bumble & Bea Photography for our cover image. For more information on Bumble & Bea, visit www.bumbleand beaphotography.co.uk

Please contact Claire Bottomley to advertise in this magazine… 07799 667 041 editor@familiesleeds.co.uk www.familiesonline.co.uk Make sure you pick up a copy of our next issue, out early November! CIRCULATION: We distribute 20,000 copies of the magazine free of charge through schools, nurseries, playgroups, clubs and classes, selected retail outlets and sports centres. Read by more than 48,000 parents. If you would like copies for your establishment please let us know. DESIGNED BY: Justin Leeming • 07745 038 005 www.justinleeming.crevado.com PRINTED BY: Charlesworth Press, Wakefield www.charlesworth.com

4–5

NEWS

8–9

BOOK CORNER Author interview with Tom Palmer

10 – 11

CLASS ACT Ideas for clubs and classes in the new school year

BABY TALK How to handle the first days at nursery

THE LISTENING PROJECT Dr Linda Mallory on how to encourage children’s listening skills

18 – 19

ALL LIT UP Halloween and Bonfire Night

20 – 23

WHAT’S ON Ideas aplenty for entertaining the family in and around Leeds, plus theatre tickets to be won on page 20.

8 18

Welcome back... As you can see, we’ve had a bit of a makeover. We have kitted ourselves out with some new fonts, updated our logo and gone for a fresh look. It seems quite a fitting time for a change. After all, September is the month of shiny school shoes, immaculate stationery, neat haircuts and good intentions. I don’t know about you, but the start of the new school year comes just at the right time for me. When I can no longer see my children’s eyes underneath their tousled mops. When they’ve decided to fully dispense with the use of footwear, utterly disregarded the concept of bedtime, and the only time they’ve used their fine motor skills for the past several weeks is to eat chips out of a newspaper cone. I love the summer holidays – the fun, the freedom, the feral-ness of it all. But I like the return to order too, and the thrill of a new start. And, If I’m lucky, I will experience a return to order (mine’s a latte) and the thrill of consuming it in peace. Hope you do the same! Claire Bottomley (Editor)

Families Leeds is part of Families Print Ltd, a franchise company. All franchised magazines in the group are independently owned and operated under licence. Families is a registered trademark of LCMB Ltd, Remenham House, Regatta Place, Marlow Road, Bourne End, Bucks SL8 5TD. The contents of Families Leeds are fully protected by copyright and none of the editorial or photographic matter may be reproduced in any form without prior consent of Families Leeds. Every care is taken in the preparation of this magazine, but the franchise company, Families Print Ltd and Lifecycle Marketing cannot be held responsible for the claims of advertisers nor for the accuracy of the contents, or any consequence thereof.

The winner of our Piglets Adventure Farm ticket competition was Christine Hill. Congratulations to her and thank you to all who entered.

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Town theme with Shop, Cafe & Petrol Station Freshly prepared food daily • Separate baby area Private Parties catered for (centre closed for parties) Unit 2 • South View Business Park • Guiseley Leeds LS20 9PP (straight on past Argos, we're 3rd on left)

01943 870 189 www.tumbletownadventureplay.co.uk

Families Leeds 3

4 Families Leeds

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FAMILIES NEWS

Families News

Primary pupils make a diﬀerence for Sick Children’s Trust Schoolchildren at a Leeds primary school have raised £1,470 for The Sick Children’s Trust as part of the nationwide Make a Difference Challenge. Year Four pupils from Austhorpe Primary School began their fundraising mission in January. They were asked to pick a cause that they felt passionately about and they chose

See the City in a New Light

the charity, which supports families with seriously ill children in hospital with free home-from-home accommodation. One of these home-from-homes, Eckersley House, supports families with seriously ill children at Leeds Children’s Hospital. Eckersley House Manager, Jane McHale, made a visit to the class to explain who the charity helps.

Year Four Teacher Helen Haigh said,“The children were extremely moved by what Jane had to say and all the wonderful work the charity does. After Jane’s visit they were adamant they wanted to focus solely on fundraising for The Sick Children’s Trust.” Over the last six months, the class has organised lots of activities including a school raffle, Name The Bear and Guess How Many Sweets In The Jar competitions, as well as selling charity wristbands and merchandise. Every child in the school was also given a collection box to take home to see who could raise the most money. Jane McHale said,“We would like to thank Austhorpe Primary School for their incredible fundraising efforts over the past six months. The children have worked extremely hard and should be so proud of all that they’ve achieved, it really is inspirational.” For more information about The Sick Children’s Trust, visit www.sickchildrenstrust.org

LIGHT NIGHT LEEDS

Light Night Leeds is back on October 5 and 6, offering over 40 events across the city, including spectacular light projections and dance, music, theatre and street performances. Light Night is an annual free multi-arts and light festival hosted in Leeds city centre from 6pm to 11pm. For more information, visit www.whatson.leeds.gov.uk/lightnight

Being a Parent could help you live longer… Having children could improve your chances of living longer, a new study has found. The research, from Sweden’s Karolinska Institute, used national registry data to analyse the mortality rates of nearly 1.5 million Swedes aged between 60 and 100. It found that those with children tended to live longer than those without. The study also found that men benefited more from being parents than women when it came to longevity, despite the fact that women had a longer average lifespan overall. familiesonline.co.uk

At age 60 fathers had a life expectancy of a further 20.2 years, compared to 18.4 years for men without children. 60-year-old mothers could expect to live for another 24.6 years compared to 23.1 years for childless women. The researchers suggest that one reason for the findings could be that children are able to provide better care, emotional support and argue for better treatment for their aging parents. Another factor could be that parents tend to live healthier lifestyles than those without children. Families Leeds 5

VIEWPOINT

Why MuSiC Rocks! It’s the start of the school year, and for many parents, thoughts are turning to their family’s busy activity schedule for the coming year. David Major, director of Yorkshire Music Education Service, explains why learning a musical instrument can be so valuable for children… At Yorkshire Music Education Service, we’ll admit that we’re slightly biased, but learning an instrument really is tremendous fun. The pure pleasure of playing is the most important thing about learning an instrument and it is so satisfying – that sense of achievement after learning a new tune or performing to friends and family. Music is also a fantastic way to meet new people – such as joining a choir, orchestra or band at your local music centre. Learning a musical instrument opens so many social opportunities and is a skill for life. It is widely recognised that music helps children’s learning in other subjects and the link between music and maths is often cited. Music also helps with physical development and co-ordination, and there are a host of transferable skills acquired in learning an

instrument – such as concentration, patience, perseverance, and teamwork – that are invaluable to later life. At YMES we believe passionately that music is for everyone. That’s why we work in a number of schools to provide instrumental lessons to whole classes – so that every child gets the opportunity. Our home music lessons are available to children and adults of all ages, as are our Saturday groups – and bursaries are available for children from lower income households so that everyone, regardless of background, can experience the joy of music-making. For more information on YMES, visit www.ymes.org.uk or email info@ymes.org.uk

MuM in the MiDDLE… Fun with the extended family makes for an interesting encounter for Becky Bond. I was lucky enough to be invited to my niece Jess’s hen weekend in York this summer. There were ten girls, all in their twenties and three family members in the 45 – 55 bracket. Now, I like to think I’m pretty open minded, but they’d booked a bloke to arrive in a fireman’s outfit to show us his hose, and my goodness, he could have put out a chip pan at ten paces. I’ve never seen my sister look so out of her comfort zone as he strode over to give her a demonstration of his equipment. There was no need for central heating, judging by her hot flush and steamy bifocals. I thought I’d got away with it, but then he turned his tackle on me and asked if I’d help reduce his body heat with a cooling lotion. That didn’t seem to make the mercury drop though because he was straight on to family member number three, wafting his wares just a whisker away from her ear. After his grand finale, which I honestly couldn’t watch, we invited him to put his fireproofs back on and join us for a gin outside. For me, that was the best bit because we heard all about his other gigs and crazy antics. His stage name is Star, we found out, which is unfortunate because he has a lisp. Could’ve been worse, could have been Superstar. He apologised for not being the one advertised on the website, there must have been a mix up, he said. But we didn’t mind, especially after he told us that he’d once been accidentally booked as a midget-ogram and had to shuffle in on his knees instead. I’m surprised he even had the energy to make conversation to be honest because we were his fourth booking that day. The following day he was being a Butler in the Buff on a boat for three hours. Not bad work for £200+ per performance. Superstar wasn’t the only thing to make our temperatures rise that weekend. There was a hot tub too, which was perfectly placed for 6 Families Leeds

people watching, due to there being a wedding going on just a stones’ throw away. At one point, one of the guests even offered to be our lifeguard. I realised he was looking at the younger end of the group when he suggested that, but hey, I was in their gang for a couple of days so was taking my compliments where I could get them. Thirteen women in a house for a whole weekend could have quite easily been a different story, but Jess’s pals proved to be a great bunch. A real mix of characters holding down a variety of interesting jobs. There was a young mum with her own hair salon, a feisty kennel and livery manager, an estate agent, a media-savvy photographer for a fashion website, the list goes on. They’re all way more tuned in than I was in my twenties. And they were so glamourous too, knowing exactly how to shape an eyebrow for the best instagram shot. I swear, at my hen party (at my sister’s house, loads of food then disco in the kitchen), some of us rocked up in jeans with no more than a slick of eyeliner on. But then, we knew we weren’t going to be leaving the house and could rest assured no flames would need dowsing at 10pm. The whole event was organised by just a couple of the girls and their attention to detail was superb. As well as accounting for fire prevention, there was a great Mr & Mrs game, a Sound of Music themed styling session, home-made food, goody bags and more prosecco than you could ever suck through a rude straw. I’m nineteen years older than Jess, but after that weekend, it’s quite obvious that the recipe for a good shindig remains the same whatever the generation. Fabulous friends, a table to dance on and gin. Roll on Wedding Day. Read Becky’s blog at www.beckybondwrites.com

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Mathtastic Accelera ng Deeper Learning & Progress in Mathema cs

Mathema cs tui on from KS2 to A Level Tailored lessons to support your child to reach their true poten al Proven teaching & learning strategies Online resources to help their learning

For a Free Assessment please call: Raj Kumar (Chartered Mathema cs Teacher)

07508 956 426 mathtastic.co.uk

'Understanding Mathematics helps us to make sense of the world around us'

Where individual isnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t just a word Why not come along to our Open Day Friday 6 October 9am-11am

Please contact the Admissions Office for further information or to arrange a personal visit: TEL: 0113 288 6345 EMAIL: admissions@gatewaysschool.co.uk WEB: www.gatewaysschool.co.uk Gateways School, Harewood, Leeds, LS17 9LE NURSERY

E A R LY Y E A R S

P R E P S C H OOL

H I G H SC H OOL

S I X TH F OR M

ACADEMIC EXCELLENCE FOR BOYS AGES 2 -11 AND GIRLS AGES 2 -18 familiesonline.co.uk

Families Leeds 7

BOOKS

iNTERviEW: Author Tom Palmer Tom Palmer is a children’s author from Leeds. With themes like football, rugby and history, his books are designed to inspire young people into reading. He works closely with schools and libraries to promote reading. We caught up with Tom to see how he got into writing, and more about his work in schools. How did you get into writing books? Sport. I struggled with reading when I was younger and my mum got me into reading about football and rugby, and then I started to write about them as well. Did you ever think that you’d end up making a career in writing books? No. I didn’t think normal people could be authors. But then I met some authors when I worked in a bookshop in Leeds and I realised that they were just normal people who worked hard and wrote books, so I thought I’d give it a go. Reading books like Wuthering Heights inspired me, as they are set in the Pennines, and made me think if they can write books set here, why can’t I? How did you get into working with schools and libraries to promote reading? When my first book came out I started going into schools doing author events and talks about reading for pleasure. I started doing more, the more books I did and really enjoyed it. What age range do your books target? The younger ones seven – 10, and the older ones nine – 13. It’s difficult judging the age because of the content and language. Going into schools is a perfect indicator for me as I can stay in touch with what they like reading and writing and at what age. I also get a lot of support from my publisher to ensure the language is suitable for each age group I’m targeting with my books.

8 Families Leeds

Quickﬁre Questions:

What advice or tips would you give to parents who are trying to engage their children in reading? I’d do what my mum did for me. She got me reading about things I was interested in. For me it was Ceefax. I hated reading, I was not a reader, but I read every page of Ceefax about sport. I didn’t define myself as a reader, but she made me realise I was. Get children to read about something that interests them on the internet, newspapers or magazines. Often literary fiction can be intimidating and put them off as they don’t understand the emotion and content in them and the big words. So, don’t limit their opportunities.

n Favourite childhood book(s)/author? Ceefax n Favourite character you’ve created? Lily from Secret FC, the Squad Series and Armistice Runner, as she’s based on my daughter. n Favourite book/story you’ve written? Over the Line n Favourite writing drink? Coffee n Favourite writing food? Millionaire Shortbread n The best thing about being an author? Getting paid to do your hobby For more information on Tom and his books, go to www.tompalmer.co.uk

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BOOKS

WiN! Bedtime Book Bundles… After the fun and frolics of the summer holidays, bedtime routines, with an important wind-down period and quality time together mean one thing – enjoying a good book.

EADING FOR PLEASURE, together at bedtime, is one of the best ways to inspire a lifelong love of reading and learning and create special memories by sharing magical stories together. If you’re looking for recommendations, there are some super new book titles out this year for children. Here are a few, and we have some to give away, courtesy of publishers Penguin Random House.

PEPPA GOES TO LONDON Everyone’s favourite pig Peppa and her little brother George go on a very special day out to London in this picture book story based on the exciting new episode. DIGGERSAURS by Michael Whaite Dinosaurs meet diggers in a picture book with rollicking rhyme and beautiful, bold illustrations. TILLY AND THE TIME MACHINE by Adrian Edmondson Tilly is seven-and-ahalf – and about to make history! When Tilly’s dad builds a time machine in the shed, there’s only one place she really wants to go: back to her sixth birthday party, when she ate too many cupcakes and her mummy was still here. But then something goes wrong! Tilly’s dad gets stuck in the past and only she can save him… Will they make it back in time for tea?

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THE RACEHORSE WHO WOULDN’T GALLOP by Clare Balding When 10-yearold horse-mad Charlie accidentally manages to buy a racehorse, she is beyond thrilled. But the horse she buys, Noble Warrior, won’t gallop and won’t even trot unless his best friend, Percy, a naughty pony, is at his side. Nevertheless, Charlie is convinced that Noble Warrior has what it takes to be a champion – he just needs the right motivation. WAVE ME GOODBYE by Jacqueline Wilson A brand-new novel from Jacqueline Wilson. It’s September, 1939. As the Second World War begins, 10-year-old Shirley is sent away on a train with her schoolmates. Shirley is billeted in the country, with two boys from East End London, Kevin and Archie – and their experiences living in the strange, half-empty Red House, with the mysterious and reclusive Mrs Waverley, will change their lives forever.

To be in with a chance to win a bundle of pre-school books, send an email with the title BOOKS 0 – 5 to editor@famililiesleeds.co.uk by September 30. For a chance to win the books for older children, send an email to that address with the title BOOKS 7+ by the same date.

ILLUSTRATOR ALISON BROWN

Calling Young Writers! There’s a chance to have your very own story published and illustrated by Leeds-based artist Alison Brown. Book People’s Bedtime Story Competition is giving children aged between five and 11 years old the opportunity to have their book published by Little Tiger and sold exclusively at BookPeople.co.uk, with Alison creating stunning artwork to accompany the text. The theme is friendship, with judges looking for stories about all kinds of friendships – from imaginary friends, best friends, and unlikely friends to new friends. The stories need to be 200 – 800 words long, across three age categories. There will be a winner in each of the three age categories and they will receive £250 of books from Book People for themselves and for their schools. From these three winners, one lucky winner will be chosen to win a publishing contract. Entries are open until October 2 this year. For more information about the competition, visit www.thebook people.co.uk/bedtimestory

Families Leeds 9

CLUBS & CLASSES

TOP of the CLASSES! The start of the new school year is the perfect time to sign up to a club or start learning a new skill. When older siblings go to school, it can be an opportunity for parents to do an activity with their younger brother or sister. For some inspiration on what classes are on oﬀer, read on…

Pyjama Drama

Diddi Dance Julia Grantham has been running diddi dance classes across North Leeds for the past year, and it’s expanded so much in that time.“I quickly added extra sessions to meet demand, and am now delivering classes in Horsforth, Rawdon, Roundhay and am delighted to be bringing a brand new session to Pool-inWharfedale on Mondays this term,” said Julia. “I’m so overwhelmed with how the classes are going,” she added. “I’ve met some wonderful children and families, lots of whom have completed a full year with me and are continuing again after the summer. It’s so rewarding to see how little ones grow and develop, not just with dancing and movement but with confidence, social skills, concentration and language.” For more information on Diddi Dance, visit www.diddidance.com

Sara Hall and her excellent team offer fun, exciting and unique classes for children aged from babies up to seven years old. Dewdrops classes cater for babies and young toddlers, Raindrops are for older toddlers, Rainbows are for pre-school children and Sunbeams for five to seven-year-olds. Developed in line with the National Curriculum, these drama classes help develop vital social skills and self-esteem, harnessing the amazing imaginations of young children. This term, Sara is offering a no obligation three-week trial for just £10 for children aged 20 months up to five years. For more information, visit www.pyjamadrama.com

The Grammar School at Leeds Village Hotel – Headingley Leeds Parkway Mercure Hotel Woodhouse Grove – Bradford The Highfield Hotel – Bradford From 6 months to 100 years!

0113 203 3549 enquiries@swimbriteswimmingschool.co.uk www.swimbriteswimmingschool.co.uk

10 Families Leeds

MusicBugs When it comes to pre-school music classes, Vicky Bannister is the pied piper of Leeds. She runs a range of classes in Alwoodley, Horsforth, Roundhay, Shadwell, Otley, Farsley and Moortown, with new classes opening this term. The sessions are interactive and sensory, using rhyme, actions, props, and songs familiar and new each time. “We’re relaxed and allow children to explore,” explains Vicky. Generally, the children are very much engaged, which is why so many parents, grandparents and enthusiastic tots enjoy music and movement with Vicky. MusicBugs classes are as follows: Baby Bugs – classes for babies aged from four weeks up to around one year. Mini Bugs – classes for six months to two years. Family Bugs – for six months to four years, these classes are ideal for parents and carers bringing siblings along. For more information, visit www.musicbugs.co.uk/leeds

Where Success Begins… Expert Tuition & Exam Preparation www.thelearningcurveleeds.com Tel: 0113 457 2796 e: enquiries@thelearningcurveleeds.com Jenny Silvester 43B Springfield Commercial Centre, Bagley Lane, Farsley, LS28 5LY

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CLUBS & CLASSES

Tiny Toes Ballet

Integer Football Simon Clifford’s Integer Football, in Leeds and Harrogate, is a forward-thinking training programme, striving to develop youth football players. It offers individualised training programmes complete with advice and mentorship in various aspects of the beautiful game, including; technical, physical, nutritional and psychological development. Integer’s holistic view of development in football is ground-breaking, says Simon, and has seen proven results in wider aspects of the child’s life. “It is a perfect programme for anyone looking to develop and improve their all-round football ability to reach the highest level they possibly can,” said Simon. For more information, visit www.integer.football

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Tiny Toes Ballet is a thoughtful, high quality dance class which combines a ballet programme with the Early Years Foundation Stage Curriculum. New Franchisee for North Leeds and Lower Wharfedale, Louise Hodgson, is bringing these innovative classes for boys and girls from six months to seven years to Yorkshire. “The impact of creative learning on children is enormous,” said Louise. “It promotes the importance of teamwork and social interaction in a subtle and direct manner. Our magical, themed classes offer a progressive, educational and fun experience which is designed to introduce a life-long love of music and dance.” Tiny Toes Ballet founder and director, Emma Morgan, added,”Our classes develop the whole child, ensuring that a broader understanding and learning takes place within each class.” For more information, visit www.tiny toesballet.co.uk/northleeds-and-lowerwharfedale

Design Make Educate Children and young people aged from six to 16 have the chance to get creative with sewing and fashion projects via classes by Design Make Educate. Run by two teachers who have worked in the fashion and design industry, Design Make Educate (DME) covers an array of skills including sewing (machine and hand) of clothing and accessories, specific fashion based projects, Bespoke Couture, designing a fashion illustration and creating a brand. The season ends with a fashion show. “At DME we are very passionate about our work and know how important creativity is in a child’s life,” said Kerry Lin, who runs classes in Yorkshire. “And we incorporate academic learning into the creative process, utilising science, maths and English skills from a project’s inception to its evaluation.” Courses run throughout the year after school and have themed workshops during school holidays. For more information, visit www.design-make-educate.com

Families Leeds 11

Settling baby into nursery

Competition TiME!

Helen Gration, owner of the Montessori Nurtury in Moortown, oﬀers some advice to parents preparing for the nursery days.

The Gro Company has come up with a new product for helping babies sleep.

TARTING YOUR BABY IN NURSERY might be a necessity as returning to work approaches, but it can also churn up your emotions. So a bit of planning beforehand may be just the thing to settle you and your little one. Nurseries are often chosen before your baby is born. So we always encourage a parent to come back to visit once their baby is here. You’re instantly the expert on your child needs and you can now take a look and have a discussion as that expert! Take it gradually. Some babies will settle easily, some may need more time. Your nursery may have a ‘home visit’ policy. If so, definitely select it. Your baby will be so relaxed at home and the nursery staff will learn much more this way. A good nursery will always plan at least three sessions and, if you need longer, will accommodate this too. Your time there needs to be total on the first visit and you’ll discuss everything to do with your child, such as bottle-feeds, weaning, sleeps, even nursery rhymes or stories you use. As your

‘settling-ins’ progress, the leader of the room should start to see a bond forming with a member of the team who will become your ‘key person’. This person will feed back to you each time about how your baby has done, from feeding to sleep, nappies to activities. With the starter visits, gradually leave your baby for a longer and longer time. You may stay in the reception area to begin with, all that is fine. You need to feel confident too. Remember, if you’re anxious, your baby will be anxious. If you’re open and relaxed when meeting the members of the room team, your baby will take your cue too. These are all social experiences they can use as they grow up. So see it as a positive! Always when you leave, say a proper goodbye to your baby, smile big, and come back soon for the initial visits. Build that trust and confidence in your baby. You’ve chosen a fantastic place for them to be secure, meet other children, have great fun and learn all sorts of amazing skills. This is going to be good for both of you.

Ollie the Owl is a cuddly companion with built-in CrySensor, which means he automatically activates when baby cries. Ollie plays four soothing sounds including heartbeat, rainfall, white noise static and a Brahms lullaby, soothing little ones back to sleep, without you having to get up! We have one Ollie to give away. To be in with a chance to win him, send an email to editor@familiesleeds.co.uk with the word OLLIE in the title by September 30.

Family fun and ﬁtness at the gym Are your thoughts turning to ﬁtness now that the new school year has arrived? Scheduling activities for everyone can be complicated, and joining a family friendly gym can be a good option. A gym that offers a wide range of children’s classes as well as ones for adults, including swimming lessons for babies, toddlers and school-age children, can be a one-stop shop for families. Cookridge Hall Health and Fitness caters for families in this way, as well as holding Splash Time fun swims every Saturday and Sunday. What’s more, you can drop the kids off at the OFSTED registered Creche while you enjoy a class or gym session, and the club

12 Families Leeds

offers a kid’s camp every school holiday so they can be entertained and cared for while you’re working. Helen Dyson, from Cookridge Hall, said, “We aim to provide the best that we can for families. Our family membership includes all of our classes and a good choice of kids classes so all the family can get fit! If you have a birthday coming up, children’s party choices include pool parties, studio fun or traditional parties.”

For more information, visit www.cookridgehall.co.uk/health

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A place to learn, play and enjoy music. All ages and abilities catered for. Instrumental lessons, orchestras, bands, theory classes, and pre-school music. Come and see what we have to offer. WEST LEEDS MUSIC CENTRE

Saturday Mornings at Leeds West Academy, LS13 1AJ (Back entrance on Summerfield Drive)

www.westleedsmusic.org.uk | westleeds@ymes.org.uk | 07528 586139

BradfordGrammar.com @BradfordGrammar

This is our ethos Make it yours

A cooking and baking club for food-loving kids. 10% online discount: LEEDSFAM10 www.stirkrazykids.co.uk

At ease with excellence Open Event Saturday 7 October bradfordgrammar.com/signup With direct and dedicated bus routes covering Bradford, Leeds, Kirklees and Calderdale it’s easy to get to BGS

BRONTE HOUSE

(ages 3 to 11 years)

an individual, yet I am part of something incredible. I am Grovian

Open Mornings 23 September & 18 November woodhousegrove.co.uk

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Families Leeds 13

EDUCATION

How to Help Your Children Listen Dr Linda Mallory is a parent and educational psychologist who has worked with hundreds of parents, teachers and children and has written Parentuality: How to Have an Amazing Relationship with Your Child. Here, she explains how listening skills go both ways… ARENTS can get frustrated when they feel their children are not listening to them. I recently spoke to a mother in this situation who requested of her son “look at me when I’m speaking to you.” Why did this particular mother ask her son to do this, when she would be unlikely to use those words to another adult, unless she was particularly angry or stressed? Perhaps she was thinking that her son never listens to her, that he is never going to learn to listen, that he is rude or bad-mannered or even that he will never get anywhere in life. The boy’s reply was “Mummy, you don’t listen with your eyes!” Good point well made. Children may be listening even when they give the impression they are not – by looking away, day dreaming, or playing with a toy. Listening is a skill that we are not explicitly taught and although we generally acquire the skill naturally, some of us are better at it than others! If children are going to listen to us, then we need to model deep empathetic listening and show them we are listening to them by perspective-taking – in other words putting ourselves in their shoes.

From my experience, there are four main levels of listening, the Four Es:

Expecting Listening Hearing what you want to hear. For instance, your child comes back from school and says he’s forgotten his book bag. This confirms your belief that ‘he always forgets his book bag.’

Ego Listening Listening for something that challenges your beliefs. This invites confrontation as you are essentially waiting for your child to say something you disagree with. For instance, “I want a phone,” to which you will reply “no, you’re not old enough.”

Empathetic Listening Seeing from their perspective. Using the words, “What do you need?” “I understand…” and “I’m wondering…” help you to see things from your child’s viewpoint. 14 Families Leeds

Experiential Listening

So how can we have more moments of Empathetic and Experiential listening?

When both parent and child change and learn from each other. Reflect on a time when your child says something and you think ‘I’ve never really thought about it like that before,’ and you offer your perspective. Those moments are examples of experiential listening. You and your child have learnt something new together and, as a result, you both view life in a slightly different way. As a parent, it is unrealistic to always listen at a deeper experiential listening level when you are busy and your child is talking endlessly about Minecraft, football or Frozen!

n Support your child’s story – give space and time to hear their understanding of their experience n Let them know that you are there if they need someone to listen n Reflect back their language when it feels authentic to do so n Give them space to reflect – don’t worry about long silences n Encourage them to come up with their own understanding of the situation, rather than telling them what to do n Give attention and be present n Perspective-take – imagine how you might feel in the same situation and put yourself in your child’s shoes n Listen to the emotions and feelings behind the words and the silences without judgement, blame or shame.

However, try to avoid the following examples of Expecting and Ego Listening: n Interrupting or finishing your child’s sentences n Judging a situation n Explaining or justifying the situation from your perspective, not theirs n One-upmanship eg ‘I know how that feels. “It happened to me and it was much worse…” n Sympathising without empathy eg “Oh. I know…” n Distracting, eg “Don’t worry it will be fine. Just think of something nice.” n Denying, eg “Don’t be silly, you’re not upset, just tired.”

Having an awareness of different types of listening can help us listen more openly to our children and can have an amazing impact on how they listen to us. If we show compassion and love when we listen, our children learn that listening is the key to amazing relationships. For more information on Linda Mallory’s work, visit www.thewhyparent.com familiesonline.co.uk

THE FROEBELIAN SCHOOL

OPEN DAY

Saturday 30 September 2017 10 am - 12 noon

The pupils’ attitudes to learning are exceptional. The Independent Schools Inspectorate 2017

A uniquely happy, enriched, learning environment

Staﬀ to pupil ratio of under 1:10

The highest ranked Leeds school in the Sunday Times Top 100 Independent Preparatory Schools list

THE FROEBELIAN SCHOOL Giving a Flying Start to the Citizens of Tomorrow

Register your interest at openday@froebelian.co.uk Telephone: 0113 258 3047 Web: www.froebelian.com Froebelian School, Clarence Road, Horsforth, Leeds LS18 4LB

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Families Leeds 15

EDUCATION

Supporting working Open Day at parents at Ghyll Royd Richmond House Pre-school & Nursery School “Back to school for some families might also mean returning to work,” says Rebecca Wilson from Ghyll Royd School. “For working parents of three and four-year-olds, our Pre-School and Nursery can ease the transition of returning to work with the offer of 30 hours free childcare.” An additional 15 hours, on top of the universal 15 hours of free childcare, are being introduced nationally for working parents this term. For children at Ghyll Royd School, this means learning, playing, growing and exploring in the seven acres of meadow and woodland at Greystone Manor, while supported by a team of qualified, caring and highly trained staff. Each day they can enjoy a fresh homecooked meal and a variety of lessons on offer as part of the Ghyll Royd curriculum, which includes PE, Music and Forest Schools. There is a high teacher-topupil ratio, and a maximum class size of 16. “Ghyll Royd Pre-School and Nursery are delighted to be able to extend the 30-hour offer to include wraparound care, meaning mummies and daddies can return to work knowing their child is in the best care, five days per week, from 8am until 6pm,” said Rebecca. “If you are eligible for our childcare offer or would like to find out more, you are very welcome to visit us.” For more information visit www.ghyllroydschool.co.uk or call 01943 865 575.

It will be open house at Richmond House School on Saturday, October 7, so go along and find out more about the independent preparatory school in Far Headingley. It offers a nurturing, family environment for girls and boys aged three to 11 years, with small class sizes along with specialist teaching from nursery in music, PE and languages. The school is renowned for its outstanding standards of education with the top grade of “excellent” across the board in the most recent full Independent Schools Inspectorate inspection, with excellent 11+ examination results. The school has over 10 acres of land, which includes an outdoor yurt classroom and a range of sports pitches and tennis courts, the school has a superb sporting reputation and its strong culture of music and drama is demonstrated in impressive performances and concerts throughout the year. Every child is encouraged to develop and explore their own interests and strengths, academic or otherwise, and the children leave at age 11 as well-rounded and self-assured individuals. The open day will take place from 10am – 12pm. To find out more or to arrange an appointment at your convenience call 0113 275 2670. For more information, visit www.rhschool.org

Next to Moortown Primary School

Loving Care and Superb Education Come and join us for the best day ever, at our visonary nursery. With inspiring rooms and adventurous outdoors, our learned & dedicated team look forward to welcoming you! The Old Chapel, Shadwell Lane, Leeds. LS17 6DR t: 07766 808 257 e: leedsmontnurtury@aol.co.uk

www.yorkshiremontessorinursery.co.uk

16 Families Leeds

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EDUCATION

Bradford Grammar School – A uK Top Ten Best value independent School Bradford Grammar School has been ranked as one of the 10 best value private schools in the UK, according to the Daily Telegraph. The school, which caters for girls and boys aged six to 18, is among the best in the world, with exceptional examination results. In 2016, 52% of all A Level exams were awarded A*/A grades. It has the highest university admission points in West Yorkshire. Outside the classroom, sport plays HEADMASTER a fundamental part of a broad, wellSIMON HINCHLIFFE rounded education for boys and girls, building character, camaraderie and school spirit. With a strong tradition of success at the highest levels in many sports, the school’s rugby, netball and cricket teams have competed all over the world including Canada, Kenya, New Zealand, South Africa, USA and many more. Former pupils of the school include Olympic heroes Alistair and Jonathan Brownlee, actress Georgie Henley, England rugby legend Charlie Hodgson and artist David Hockney. Headmaster, Simon Hinchliffe said,“Bradford Grammar School provides every opportunity for its Junior, Senior and Sixth Form pupils to embrace academic, sporting and creative excellence within an aspirational, caring environment in which happiness is the key to an individual’s success.” Bradford Grammar School has direct, dedicated bus routes covering Leeds. It will be holding an Open Day event on October 7.

New £3million Sports Centre at Ashville College

A project to transform Ashville College’s Sports Centre is set to complete this term, boasting a bigger gymnasium, new studio, nine new changing facilities, new reception and café area, and new staff offices. The swimming pool will also be redecorated and revamped. Headmaster Mark Lauder said,“At £3m, this is the single biggest investment undertaken at Ashville College so far. The Sports Centre has been a central feature of the campus for more than half a century, but the decades of constant use by pupils, club members and outside organisations, have taken their toll. Once completed, we will have one of the most modern sports centres in the region.” Ashville College is a leading independent day and boarding school for boys and girls aged three to 18 in Harrogate. For more information, visit www.ashville.co.uk

For more information, visit www.bradfordgrammar.com

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Families Leeds 17

BONFIRE NIGHT

FiREWORK Safety Advice As Bonfire Night and the Diwali Festival of Light fast approach, and with all the excitement of rockets and Catherine wheels among adults and kids alike, it can be easy to overlook the potential dangers of bonfire and firework celebrations.

Tips for choosing your ﬁreworks Did you know: Fireworks can travel at speeds of 150 mph, the cruising speed of some biplanes! Make sure the fireworks you buy are meant for home use, are suitable for the size of your garden and are marked with British Standard number (BS 7114). You should also: 1. Store fireworks in a metal box with a lid D during the display

2. 3. 4. 5.

Use a torch for checking instructions Use a taper for lighting fireworks Have a bucket of water close to hand Have a bucket or other container of soft earth to stick fireworks in 6. Use a board or other non-flammable rigid surface for flat-bottomed fireworks 7. Use supports or launches for Catherine wheels or rockets

Don’t forget the sparklers! Did you know: If three sparklers burn together they will do so at the same heat of a blowtorch used for joining metal and so it’s essential you follow a few guidelines for safe usage: 1. Find somewhere safe that is open, but not too windy 2. Remember to wear gloves so that you do not get burnt

3. Adults should always light the sparkler 4. Make sure that only one sparkler is lit at a time 5. Remember that when they are first ignited they give off a very bright and heated initial spark 6. Remember to hold the sparkler horizontally and as far away from your body and face as possible 7. Once you have had fun with the sparkler (try writing names) and it is no longer burning, make sure it is put in a bucket filled with water 8. Never touch the end of the sparkler, even long after it has stopped burning Now that you’re clear on keeping your family safe; enjoy your Diwali celebrations on October 20 and Bonfire Night on November 5!

AuTuMN WORDSEARCH For classes in Horsforth, Rawdon, Roundhay and Pool-In-Wharfedale contact Julia: 07734 940 610

For classes in BOSTON SPA contact Cath: 07917 757 566

SPARKLERS APPLES

18 Families Leeds

LEAVES BONFIRE

HARVEST LANTERNS

BATS WELLIES

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HALLOWEEN

Getting kids into the HALLOWEEN SPIRIT It’s one of the best times of the year for children, but how can you help your child get into the spirit of Halloween? We’ve come up with lots of ideas to create a truly scary atmosphere for your child so that everyone is ready and prepared for the spookiest event of the year.

Get CRAFTY!

Get COOKING!

All children like to make a mess and be imaginative. Well, let them do this for Halloween. Most of these ideas only require simple materials and things you can find lying around your house. SPOOKY SPIDER CRAFTS For this, all you’ll need is an old toilet roll, paint, scissors, paper and googly eyes. Cut the end of the roll into eight leg sized pieces and bend the legs upwards so they stick out. Dip the legs in black paint and print onto paper. Then stick on your eyes. What better way to enjoy this event than with lots of edible treats? Below are some really easy and cheap ideas you can try at home. HALLOWEEN CUSTARD Layer broken-up chocolate brownie and custard into a short glass. Once filled to the top, use two mini marshmallows and chocolate buttons to create eyes. JELLY WORMS Pack a cup with straws and pour in your jelly mix. Then leave to set in the fridge. Getting them out can be tricky, but you could turn this into a great Halloween game!

TISSUE PAPER GHOULS Take an old jam jar and wrap with tissue paper. Then draw spooky faces onto the paper. Place a torch or electric candle inside.

PUMPKIN PRINTS Cut an apple in half, dip in orange paint and have pumpkin shapes printed before your eyes!

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MUDDY WORMS Make up a batch of chocolate Angel delight, and poke jelly worms out of the top as though they’re coming out of the ground. Then sprinkle with grated chocolate to look like worm casts. Families Leeds 19

WHAT’S ON…

SPOOKTACuLAR FuN at Stockeld Park There are Ghoulish goings on this October half term at the Halloween Adventure at Stockeld Park. Enter the Enchanted Forest, with its four large themed adventure playgrounds, plus a host of magical and whimsical interactive play pieces, including the brand new Book of Books, complete with the bookworm spiral slide. The forest will come alive with joyful and unique illuminations, and remain open until 8.30pm every evening of half term and Halloween. It can also be enjoyed on a journey by Nordic ski, which is great family fun. Spooking younger visitors, a coven of wicked witches is flying in to haunt the Forest, with riddles and challenges that have to be solved. The Stockeld Park ice rink will also be in full swing for those who want to work up an appetite for hot chocolate with spooky biscuits or something more filling in the Halloween themed café. Try not to get lost in the giant illuminated yew tree Maze which will have added fun with the ‘find the bat’ challenge. As well as all this you can learn how to make magical potions and lotions with Eerie Science, have your face painted, do Creepy Crafts and more. Stockeld Park Halloween Adventure is open daily from October 20 to 31, 10.30am to 8.30pm. For more information, visit www.stockeldpark.co.uk

THE TiGER WHO CAME TO TEA… The doorbell rings just as Sophie and her mummy are sitting down to tea. Who could it possibly be? What they certainly don’t expect to see at the door is a big, stripy tiger! Following a smash-hit West End season, the tea-guzzling tiger is coming to King’s Hall, Ilkley on October 17 and 18. A delightful family show, it is packed with oodles of magic, sing-a-long songs and clumsy chaos! A stunning stage adaptation of the classic tale of teatime mayhem… expect to be surprised! It’s adapted and directed by Olivier Award Winner David Wood OBE, the country’s leading writer and director of plays and musicals for children. Suitable for children three and above. Running time 55 minutes (no interval). For more information, visit www.bradford-theatres.co.uk

COMPETITION TIME! We have a Family Ticket (for four including two or three children aged 16 or under) for the 4.30pm performance of The Tiger Who Came to Tea on Tuesday, October 17. To enter, send an email with the word TIGER in the title to editor@familiesleeds.co.uk before September 30. 20 Families Leeds

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WHAT’S ON…

Eye Dissection Workshops at Thackray Medical Museum Discover the fascinating organ that is the eye in these hands-on workshops. Dissect an eye (non-human) to understand how the lens, cornea, iris, optic nerve and retina work together to create the images we see. Workshops will take place at 11am, 1pm and 3pm from October 23 – 27. Children must be supervised and one eye and one scalpel will be issued per supervising adult. For more information, visit www.thackraymedicalmuseum.co.uk

HALLOWEEN SPOOKTACULAR AT TEMPLE NEWSAM

More SPOOKY HAPPENiNGS… There’s a Spooky Scarecrow Trail at Lotherton Hall from October 22 to 31. Follow the clues around the estate and see the popular scarecrows on display. Don’t forget to visit the witches’ cottage and try your hand at the creepy crafts. Experience Halloween By Day at York Maze from October 23 to November 1, where the giant maize maze has been harvested but a small section is kept for the Haunted Maze Treasure Hunt, just one of over 20 Halloween attractions, rides and shows. Another Spooky Scarecrow Trail will be dotted around Kirkstall Abbey from October 25 to 30, with all sorts of Halloween creatures including witches, vampires, werewolves and trolls! At Halloween Spooktacular, Temple Newsam, on October 31 itself, take your little ghosts and ghouls dressed up in a spooky outfit to trick or treat through the darkened house SPOOKY SCARECROW TRAIL and farm and collect some treats from AT LOTHERTON HALL 5 – 8pm. familiesonline.co.uk

Contact Sara Hall on 0113 834 6522 or email sara@pyjamadrama.com

Families Leeds 21

WHAT’S ON…

THE TIGER WHO CAME TO TEA We took every care in preparing these entries but sometimes events are cancelled or times change. Please double check with the organiser to avoid disappointment. Fairy Tales and Fantasy at Abbey House Museum – until December 31 Abbey Walk, Kirkstall, LS5 3EH 0113 378 4079 www.leeds.gov.uk/fairytales This exhibition showcases some familiar fairy tales, including Aladdin, Little Red Riding Hood, Sleeping Beauty and Cinderella. Closed on Monday, except for Bank Holidays. 10am. Family Cycle Zone at Bolton Abbey – daily until October 1 Bolton Abbey, Yorkshire, BD23 6AL A safe area for children to cycle, away from the hazards of traffic and pedestrians. With paths cut through the grass and road signs to mark the way, this is the perfect spot for little ones to gain confidence and find their balance. Take your own bikes. If This Barn Could Speak at East Riddlesden Hall – Saturdays to November 4 Bradford Road, Keighley, BD20 5EL Immerse yourself in history as one of the finest barns in England is brought to life through the power of storytelling. 1 – 1.30pm & 2.30 – 3pm. Welly Walk at Bolton Abbey – except Fridays and Sundays, until November 5 Bolton Abbey, Yorkshire, BD23 6AL Tree climbing, tunnels, slides, bridges and beams, amazing fun – forget being clean! The route follows the Priory Trial from the Stepping Stones to the Cavendish Pavilion. It is not suitable for wheelchairs or pushchairs. Dogs are welcomed on a lead. Sturdy boots or wellingtons are advisable. A spare set of clothing is suggested. Women, Work and War at Leeds Industrial Museum – until September 24 Armley Mills, Canal Rd, LS12 2QF 0113 378 3173 www.whatson.leeds.gov.uk An exhibition highlighting the variety of roles women had in Leeds across the economy in the First World War. DAZL Xplode at South Leeds Youth Hub – Saturdays Until Dcember 23 Middleton Road, Belle Isle, LS10 3JA 0113 270 6903 www.dazl.org.uk Dance session at the South Leeds Youth Hub. Go and try dance styles like Street, Breakdance and Hip Hop. No experience is necessary boys and girls are welcome. Diesel Service at Middleton Railway – Saturdays The Station, Moor Road on Hunslet, LS10 2JQ 0845 680 1758 www.middletonrailway.org.uk Saturday is Diesel services day on the Middleton Railway. Steam Service at Middleton Railway – Sundays The Station, Moor Road on Hunslet, LS10 2JQ 0845 680 1758 www.middletonrailway.org.uk Sunday is Steam services day on the Middleton Railway so why not have a day out on the trains? Cross Flatts Junior Parkrun – every Sunday Cross Flatts Park, Beeston, LS11 7BQ www.parkrun.org.uk/crossflatts Parkrun has organised a 2k run or walk at Cross Flatts Park for children aged four to 14 years (children must be supervised). The run is measured and timed for free if you register or you can just turn up and have fun.

22 Families Leeds

Sculpture Trail at RHS Garden Harlow Carr – Until October 31 Crag Lane, Harrogate, HG3 1QB 0845 265 8070 www.rhs.org.uk Throughout September and October visitors to the garden will be able to enjoy a sculpture trail showcasing local artists and craftspeople. Pieces including those on display in the garden are available to purchase.

Bat Walk at Middleton Park – September 13 Town Street, Middleton, LS10 3SH 0113 378 1142 www.whatson.leeds.gov.uk Meet the batty residents of Middleton Park. Guided walk using detectors to find out who is flying around. The walk will be mainly on paths but wear footwear suitable for undulating and sloping ground. Take a torch. 7.30pm to 9pm.

Hidden Temple Newsam Tour at Temple Newsam House – September 2, 9 & 16 Halton, Leeds, LS15 0AE 0113 336 7460 www.whatson.leeds.gov.uk Take a journey under the house through the cellars and tunnels to learn how the servants got around Temple Newsam House unseen. Age 7+. Free with normal admission to the House. Involves some steep steps and uneven surfaces. Book by calling 0113 336 7460 or email temple.newsam.house@leeds.gov.uk. 11am to 11.45am.

Autumn Deer Watch at Fountains Abbey – September 23 Fountains Abbey, Ripon, HG4 3DY www.nationaltrust.org.uk Look out for early tell-tale behaviour as the stags and bucks get ready for the rut. Join this guided walk into the medieval deer park to have the chance at spotting Red stags festooning their antlers with greenery and listen as they begin to roar.

Mini Maestro Music Sessions at Leeds City Museum – Tuesdays until September 26 Millennium Square, LS2 8BH 0113 224 3732 www.leeds.gov.uk Join Mini Maestros for creative, fun music classes at the museum. For children aged 2+ but younger siblings are welcome too. £3 per child per session, booking required on Eventbrite. 1pm to 2pm. Multi-Sensory Morning: Life on Earth at Leeds City Museum – September 8 Millennium Square, LS2 8BH 0113 224 3732 www.whatson.leeds.gov.uk Multi-Sensory Morning for the Under 5s and their carers. Go along and play in the pop up sensory room, and try some multi-sensory crafts. 10am. Mum2Mum Market at Otley Rugby Club – September 9 Cross Green, Otley, LS21 1HE 07908 773 451 www.mum2mummarket.co.uk Preloved baby equipment and clothes available at this nearly new baby and children's market 10am – 12noon. Food and Drink Festival at RHS Garden Harlow Carr – September 9 Crag Lane, Harrogate, HG3 1QB 0845 265 8070 www.rhs.org.uk Harlow Carr’s Food and Drink Festival is a celebration of all things Yorkshire. There will also be live music and seating available outside. 9.30am to 6pm. Belgrave Feast at Belgrave Music Hall and Canteen – September 9 1a Cross Belgrave Street, LS2 8JP 01132 346 160 www.belgravemusichall.com Three floors of street food, art and music. Heritage Open Day at The Tetley – September 9 & 10 Hunslet Road, LS10 1JQ 07930 236 383 thetetley.org/heritage-open-days Explore some of the historic aspects of The Tetley centre for contemporary art. On the Saturday only there is also a free heritage themed Family Art Workshop. Tours: Saturday – 11.30am & 2.30pm; Sunday – 11.30am & 2.30pm. Tours will last approximately one hour. Places are free but must be booked in advance as space is limited. To book, email reception@thetetley.org. Autumn Harvest at Lotherton Hall – September 10 Lotherton Lane, Aberford, LS25 3EB 0113 378 2959 www.whatson.leeds.gov.uk For this year’s Apple Day, Lotherton Hall will be hosting a traditional Autumn Harvest celebration event. Pick rare varieties of apples in the orchard, and take part in local cider and apple juice tasting. There will be harvest treats in Lotherton cafe for the day, and with fruit and veg sculpture making in the Stable Courtyard and games in the gardens, there will be plenty of Harvest entertainment for all the family. Tickets are free with normal admission into the museum. 11am. The Middleton Park Show – September 10 Middleton Park, Town Street, Middleton, LS10 3SH 07747 092 459 www.thegreatmiddletonparkshow.myfreesites.net Showcasing the skills and activities of all in Middleton, including over 40 food and craft stalls; duck, sheep and dog trials; music led by a local band and more. Submit your veg or handiwork for a prize certificate or trophy. 1pm.

Tiny Tetley at The Tetley – September 27 Hunslet Road, LS10 1JQ 07930 236 383 www.thetetley.org Take the little ones along to join in creative and messy play for free. Tiny Tetley workshops take place on the fourth Wednesday of each month. Advanced booking is required. There are two time slots for each session: 10.30am and 11.30am and 11.45am and 12.45pm. Email your preferred workshop date and time slot to reception@thetetley.org with your name and the number of children and adults in your party. Autumn Festival of Trees at RHS Garden Harlow Carr – September 29 to October 1 Crag Lane, Harrogate, HG3 1QB 0845 265 8070 www.rhs.org.uk Celebrate the best of autumn with this weekend-long event to enjoy all that’s wonderful about trees. There’ll be tours, tree planting demonstrations and Shire horses, and children will have a chance to learn how to age trees with a tape measure and a formula. Wound Makeup Workshops at Thackray Medical Museum – September 30 Near St James’s Hospital, Beckett Street, LS9 7LN 0113 244 4343 www.thackraymedicalmuseum.co.uk Use make-up techniques from stage and film to create scary scars, bubbling boils and pus filled pimples. Workshops take place every 30 minutes. Sign up on arrival at the museum. There is a small charge of £2 per wound. 10am to 3pm. The Leeds Colour Run at Harewood House – September 30 LS17 9LG 0113 218 5580 www.st-gemma.co.uk A big, bright, happy and colourful 5k, with the iconic Harewood House as its backdrop. You can walk, run, jog, hop, skip or cartwheel your way around the course. Join two thousand other St Gemma’s Hospice participants, get fit, get colourful, make memories and make a mess! There’ll be bouncy castles, face painting, sponsorship bank, photo-booths, live music, fun mass warm ups, extra paint packets for sale, merchandise and free parking for participants and spectators. 11am to 3pm. Fountains by Floodlight at Fountains Abbey – Saturdays, September 30 – October 28 & Friday, October 27 Fountains, Ripon, HG4 3DY www.nationaltrust.org.uk Experience something truly special this autumn as you explore the illuminated ruins of Fountains Abbey. Warm up with a scrummy hot pulled pork sandwich from the abbey tearoom BBQ, listen to a live performance from the choir and join an evening guided tour. You might even catch a glimpse of the mysterious roving monk. 5pm to 9pm. Pumpkin Festival at Piglets Adventure Farm Park – October 1 to 31 The Farmers Cart, Towthorpe Moor Lane, York, YO32 9ST 01904 499 183 www.pigletsadventurefarm.com With lots of spooky attractions and thousands of pumpkins, there’s so much family fun to be had. Spellbinding magic shows, the Mysterious Maize Challenge, Trick or Treat Tales, Pumpkin Carving, a tractor ride to the Pumpkin Patch to choose a pumpkin and much more. Free pumpkin for every child.

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WHAT’S ON… Eerie Science Week at Stockeld Park – October 23 – 29 The Estate Office, Wetherby, LS22 4AN 01937 586101 www.stockeldpark.co.uk Those crazy science folk from Sublime Science return for more weird goings on and brilliant experiments. They’ll be taking their scientific activities and giving them an eerie twist for the Halloween Adventure. Sarah & Duck’s Big Top Birthday at West Yorkshire Playhouse – October 24 – 28 Playhouse Square, LS2 7UP 0113 213 7800 www.wyp.org.uk The enchanting world of Sarah & Duck is brought to life in a brand-new stage show, featuring the wonderful characters from the CBeebies show.

APPLE DAY AT LOTHERTON HALL

Autumn Free Day at RHS Garden Harlow Carr – October 3 Crag Lane, Harrogate, HG3 1QB 0845 265 8070 www.rhs.org.uk/gardens/ harlow-carr Go along and check out the beautiful garden with all the glorious colours of autumn, completely free of charge. 9.30am to 6pm. Light Night Leeds – October 5 & 6 Millenium Square, Leeds City Centre, Calverley Street, LS1 1UR www.whatson.leeds.gov.uk/lightnight An annual free multi-arts and light festival hosted in Leeds city centre. See the city in a new light with over 40 events across the city, including spectacular light projections and dance, music, theatre and street performances. 6pm to 11pm. Autumn Deer Watch Walk at Fountains Abbey – October 7 Fountains, Ripon, HG4 3DY www.nationaltrust.org.uk See and hear the sights and sounds of the 'rut' as the stags and bucks begin to lock antlers to compete for the does and hinds. Experience one of the season's most spectacular sights on this guided walk through the medieval deer park. 2pm to 4pm The Tiger Who Came to Tea at King’s Hall Ilkley – October 17 & 18 4 Station Rd, Ilkley LS29 8HB 01943 436 224 www.bradford-theatres.co.uk Following a smash-hit West End season, the tea-guzzling tiger is back on the road in this delightful family show; packed with magic, sing-a-long songs and clumsy chaos. High School Musical at the Carriageworks Theatre October 19 – 21 The Electric Press, 3 Millennium Square, Leeds, LS2 3AD 0113 224 3801 www.leeds.gov.uk/carriageworks This stage production of the smash hit movie musical is a must see for all the family, with a large cast and upbeat numbers.

Creepy Creatures at RHS Garden Harlow Carr – October 21 – 29 Crag Lane, Harrogate, HG3 1QB 0845 265 8070 www.rhs.org.uk Creepy creature trail and much more during October half term. Indoor crafts and outdoor activities. 9.30am to 6pm daily.

Spooky tour and beastly beasts – free family workshop at Leeds Discovery Centre – October 25 Carlisle Road, Leeds, LS10 1LB 0113 378 2100 www.whatson.leeds.gov.uk Take your battery-powered candles for a pre-Halloween spook-fest. Investigate the weird world of museum monsters. Dressing-up optional. Free. Booking required. Email discovery.centre@leeds.gov.uk or call for more information. 10am to 12pm.

Awesome Autumn Weaving at Fountains Abbey – October 21 – 29 Fountains, Ripon, HG4 3DY www.nationaltrust.org.uk Try your hand at weaving in Swanley Grange using glorious autumn coloured wool. You'll discover how the material of cosy woolly jumpers was hugely important in medieval times. You can even take your piece of weaving home. 11am to 4pm.

Witches in the Forest – a trick or treat spooktacle! At Stockeld Park – October 25 – 31 The Estate Office, Wetherby, LS22 4AN 01937 586 101 www.stockeldpark.co.uk The Stockeld witches return with a spell binding riddle for 2017! You will need to visit each witch to get a secret invisible letter stamp on your hand. Only upon meeting the final magical witch will the word be revealed and the spell broken.

Bird Feeder Making at Fountains Abbey – October 23 – 25 Fountains, Ripon, HG4 3DY www.nationaltrust.org.uk With the weather getting colder, go along to make a wooden bird feeder to help our feathered friends. Materials and tools will be provided, but be ready to roll up your sleeves and have fun hammering! Book early. £6 per feeder.

Frightwater Valley at Lightwater Valley – October 26 – 29 North Stainley, Ripon, HG4 3HT 0843 504 3893 www.lightwatervalley.co.uk The annual Halloween spooktacular! All manner of ghastly ghosts and gruesome ghouls lurk within the shadows of the theme park.

Eye Dissection Workshops at Thackray Medical Museum – October 23 – 27 Near St James’s Hospital, Beckett Street, LS9 7LN 0113 244 4343 www.thackraymedicalmuseum.co.uk Discover the fascinating organ that is the eye in these hands-on workshops. Dissect an eye (non-human) to understand how the lens, cornea, iris, optic nerve and retina work together to create the images we see. Workshops will take place at 11am, 1pm and 3pm. Children must be supervised and one eye and one scalpel will be issued per supervising adult.

Pumpkin Trail at Bolton Abbey – October 21 – 31 BD23 6AL www.boltonabbey.com Follow the trail of over-sized pumpkins through Strid Wood and discover the mystery doors hidden among the trees. Behind each door is a clue to help unravel the witches’ magical spell. A spooktacular week of fun.

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Fright Night at Stockeld Park – October 27 – 31 The Estate Office, Wetherby, LS22 4AN 01937 586 101 www.stockeldpark.co.uk Fright night returns to Stockeld Park this October with a bang! Be prepared to be scared. Ages 12 and over. Two never seen before attractions and a new production team have given this already special event a seriously dark makeover. Halloween Weekend at Lotherton Hall – October 28 & 29 Lotherton Lane, Aberford, LS25 3EB 0113 378 2959 www.whatson.leeds.gov.uk With a chance to meet some ghostly characters in the house, face painting, creepy crafts and prizes for the best fancy dress, do you dare to miss out? Tickets are free with normal admission into the museum. For more information email lotherton.hall@leeds.gov.uk or call. 11am to 4pm.

Mister Maker the Shapes Live at York Barbican – October 21 Paragon Street, York, YO10 4AH 0844 854 2757 www.yorkbarbican.co.uk Join CBeebies’ Mister Maker in his hit live theatre tour! 1.30pm.

Spooky Scarecrow Trail at Lotherton Hall – October 21 – 29 Lotherton Lane, Aberford, LS25 3EB 0113 378 2959 www.whatson.leeds.gov.uk Lotherton’s Spooky Scarecrow Trail is back, bigger and better than before. Can you follow the clues around the house and estate, to find all of the super spooky scarecrows? Why not pay a visit to the Witches’ Cottage while you’re there, or have a go at the creepy crafts on offer in the Servants’ Rooms. Visit if you dare. Tickets are free with normal admission into the museum. For more information email lotherton.hall@leeds.gov.uk. 11am.

Pop Up Sensory Room at Leeds City Museum – October 26 Millennium Square, LS2 8BH 0113 224 3732 www.whatson.leeds.gov.uk A pop-up sensory room with bubble tube, dark tents and tactile toys, for a calmer moment on your museum trip in the holidays. Free, drop in. 10.30am.

Pie & Peas and Fungus Foray at Rodley Nature Reserve – October 28 Moss Bridge Road, Rodley, LS13 1HP 0113 204 0441 www.rodleynaturereserve.org Pie & Peas served from 11am until all sold. At 2pm join the fungus foray round the reserve to look for and identify fungi found in October. Book your pie and peas in advance to avoid disappointment. 11am to 4pm. Halloween Spooktacular at Temple Newsam – October 31 Halton, Leeds, LS15 0AE 0113 336 7460 www.whatson.leeds.gov.uk Take your little ghosts and ghouls dressed up in a spooky outfit to trick or treat through the darkened house and farm and collect some treats from 5 – 8pm.

STOCKELD PARK

Families Leeds 23

OPEN DAY Saturday 7th October 1:30pm - 4:30pm www.ashville.co.uk